Malé, Maldives – Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) has revealed plans to begin container ferry services to atolls in an attempt to facilitate transport of goods brought to the Malé North harbor and the islands.
MPL is to start this service this June, as a means to combat current issues faced when transporting goods from Malé North Harbour to various Atolls.
Managing Director of MPL, Shahid Ali stated in an interview to local news outlet “Adhadhu” that this service is for businessmen as currently, there is no routinely scheduled container transfer service.
” Numerous containers are sent to atolls. This service is mostly provided by private companies, and routine services are unavailable. We are starting this service to provide a routinely scheduled container transfer service “
MPL Managing Director Shahid Ali
MPL noted that once this service begins, price of transport of goods will decrease, and in turn will result in favorable changes to the sale price of goods.
MPL’s MD said that private shipping businesses charge excessively for goods transport, resulting in more expensive items, but that after MPL’s services start, the consolidated freight rate will change and prices of goods will fall.
Container shipping prices currently range from MVR 30,000 to upwards of MVR 80,000, with prices based on the type of goods or the weather.
MD Shahid disclosed that MPL freight rates would be relatively low, with prices to be announced soon.
The service will transport containers to the Hitahdhoo port in Addu City and to Kulhudhuffushi City Port, with plans to expand services to Thinadhoo once the island’s harbour is completed.
This service is to begin next month with one vessel, with MPL revealing plans to expand in the future based on public support for this venture.
